Album review - The Wild Beasts - Limbo, Panto (Domino Records)

The Wild Beasts are truly original.  As I listen to Limbo, Panto - their debut album again, I really can’t compare them with anyone else.  Hayden Thorpe’s beautiful voice is reminiscent in parts of Billy Mackenzie’s golden tonsils, but apart from sharing an uncompromising, unconventional sound, especially in today’s very sterile world of music, there the comparison with The Associates ends.

Clearly, The Wild Beasts do not fit snuggly into any predefined category of box.  More over, they are obviously not concerned about fitting in with current trends or fads, which is great to see; and also great to know record labels such as Domino are still supporting and promoting individuality.

The Wild Beasts are based in Leeds. Limbo, Panto is a collection of 10 wonderful tracks, though like me, The Wild Beasts’ sound may take time to grow on you.  But grow it might.

There is something typically English about The Wild Beasts, eccentric yet not flamboyant.  Humorous in an intellectual Morrissey way.

The Devil’s Crayon is my favourite track, and will be released as the first single on 30th July.

It really is quite difficult their sound, so why not listen to The Wild Beasts and make up your own mind.